The best POS systems for 2026 are Square, Shopify POS, Toast, Helcim, Lightspeed, GoDaddy, Clover, and PayPal POS. Square is my top pick for most small businesses, while Shopify leads for ecommerce, Toast for restaurants, and Helcim for transparent interchange-plus pricing.
I compared each point of sale system across pricing, hardware, software features, support and reliability, user experience, and customer reviews. I also considered how well each provider fits different business types, from startups and mobile sellers to retailers, restaurants, and growing multi-channel businesses.
The right POS system should do more than process payments. It should help you manage sales, inventory, customers, staff, and reporting without adding unnecessary costs or complexity. Below, I compare the top options, explain where each performs best, and break down the tradeoffs that matter most when choosing a POS system.
Best POS systems at a glance
| Best for | Starting monthly price | |
|---|---|---|
| Square | Best overall (best value all-in-one POS) | $0 |
| Shopify POS | Ecommerce and omnichannel retail | $5 |
| Toast | Restaurants | $0 |
| Helcim | B2B and high-volume payments | $0 |
| Lightspeed Retail | Large and complex inventories | $89 |
| GoDaddy POS | Low-cost POS | $0 |
| Clover | Flexible payment processing and durable mobile POS hardware | $0 |
| PayPal Point of Sale (formerly PayPal Zettle) | Microbusinesses and occasional sellers | $0 |
How I evaluated the best small business POS systems
I evaluated eight POS systems across six weighted categories: pricing, hardware, software features, support and reliability, user experience, and third-party customer reviews. I also tested systems hands-on when possible, reviewed product documentation, participated in provider demos, and verified pricing and payment terms directly.
Scores are recalculated when providers materially change pricing, hardware, or POS functionality. Below is our rubric scoring criteria:
- Pricing & value: I analyzed monthly software fees, payment processing rates, hardware costs, and any onboarding or hidden charges. I compared both entry-level plans and higher-tier options to assess long-term value and scalability for growing businesses.
- Hardware flexibility: I reviewed available POS hardware, including countertop terminals, mobile card readers, tablets, and accessories. I considered design, portability, upfront cost, and financing options to determine how adaptable each system is for different setups.
- Core features: I evaluated essential POS capabilities such as sales tracking, inventory management, customer profiles, employee management, order handling, and reporting. I also looked for advanced tools like multichannel selling, built-in ecommerce, and automation features.
- Ease of use: I assessed onboarding, interface design, and how quickly a new user can get up and running. I also considered day-to-day usability, including navigation, checkout flow, and overall system responsiveness.
- Support & reliability: I reviewed support channels, availability, training resources, and system stability. This included whether providers offer reliable uptime and accessible help across different pricing tiers.
- User feedback: I incorporated customer ratings and reviews from trusted third-party platforms to validate real-world performance, focusing on common strengths, complaints, and long-term satisfaction.
To validate my findings, I used a mix of hands-on testing, product demos, and guided walkthroughs where available. This included exploring dashboards, running sample transactions, reviewing reporting tools, and testing key workflows like inventory updates and payment processing. I also compared platform popularity and market adoption to help break close decisions.
Update notes
- September 21, 2026: Agatha Aviso re-evaluated all POS providers using our updated in-house rubric, refreshed provider rankings and scores, and verified current pricing, hardware, payment processing, and software features.
- March 17, 2026: Agatha Aviso re-evaluated POS providers using our in-house rubric, considered new systems for inclusion, and updated all provider information to reflect the latest features and pricing. She also added a new pricing comparison table and sections covering industry trends and tips on choosing the right POS system for different business needs.
- December 16, 2024: Anna Lynn Dizon updated the rubric criteria to include industry-specific software, payment processing flexibility, and onboarding and setup. She added four new providers for consideration and evaluated them along with updated scores for others already on the list. She also re-evaluated each system for consideration. Finally, she added a detailed methodology section and rewrote the product sections based on her latest findings.
Why you can trust my advice
My recommendations for small business POS systems are based on more than five years of experience testing and reviewing point-of-sale systems and over a decade working with small businesses, especially ecommerce retailers. To score each one, I reviewed software and hardware specifications, tested the POS software hands-on when possible, and gathered feedback from real-life users.
In addition to hands-on testing, our team regularly demos these systems with provider product teams to evaluate new features and confirm technical details. We also “secret shop” many platforms to verify current pricing, assess onboarding, and experience customer support as an actual business owner would.
Best POS systems compared
Provider | My score out of 5 | In-person processing fees | Standout strength | POS Hardware options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Square | 4.46 | 2.6% + 15 cents | Strong all-around POS with broad SMB fit | Excellent |
| Shopify POS | 4.35 | 2.4-2.6% + 10 cents | Best online and in-store commerce connection | Great |
| Toast | 4.26 | 2.49% + 15 cents | Deep restaurant-specific tools | Good |
| Helcim | 4.26 | Interchange + 0.40% + 8 cents | Automatic volume discounts and no monthly fee | Good |
| Lightspeed Retail | 4.07 | 2.6% + 10 cents | Advanced inventory and retail management | Great |
| GoDaddy POS | 4.00 | 2.5% | Low-cost payments and simple setup | Limited |
| Clover | 3.99 | 2.3-2.6% + 10 cents | Broad hardware and app ecosystem | Great |
| PayPal POS | 3.98 | 2.29% + 9 cents | Simple, low-overhead mobile payments | Limited |
Not finding what you are looking for? Check out my guide to the Best Retail POS Systems for more options.
Square: Best overall and free (best value all-in-one POS system)
Pros
- Forever-free plan
- Competitive flat-rate payment processing
- Add-ons and advanced plans to support growth
- Restaurant, retail, beauty, and service industry-specific POS systems
Cons
- Must use Square Payments
- Loyalty program is not included in any plans; add-on only
- Lacks several major ecommerce integrations, including Shopify
- No TikTok Shop integration
Why I chose Square
I chose Square as the best overall POS system because it gives small businesses one of the easiest paths from basic payment acceptance to a fuller POS setup.
Square Free has no monthly software fee and includes payments, inventory, reporting, customer profiles, invoicing, and online selling, while paid plans add more advanced retail and restaurant tools. Square also supports several hardware options, including Tap to Pay, mobile readers, terminals, stands, and registers.
Note, though, that Square’s software and POS tools are exclusive within the Square ecosystem, so you won’t be able to use any of its upgrades if you have a different POS provider. That said, Square is easy to use, has great customer and expert reviews, offers some of the best POS hardware that money can buy, and can support small businesses from the moment they start and as they continue to expand.
Related: Best free POS systems
Square pricing
POS plans:
Square offers three POS tiers across all POS-specific offerings. Plans vary based on the level and types of features they provide.
- Square Free: $0/month per location
- Square Plus: $49/month per location (30-day free trial)
- Square Premium: $149/month per location (30-day free trial)
Processing fees:
Square requires the use of Square Payments to process transactions. Square Payments has a flat-rate pricing model for different transaction types; rates vary based on your software plan.
- In-person (tap, dip, swipe): 2.6% + 15 cents (Free), 2.5% + 15 cents (Plus), 2.4% + 15 cents (Premium)
- Online: 3.3% + 30 cents (Free), 2.9% + 30 cents (Plus & Premium)
- Manual entry: 3.5% + 15 cents
- Afterpay: 6% + 30 cents
- ACH bank transfer: 1% ($1 min, $5–$10 fee cap)
Hardware:
With Square, there are several hardware options you can purchase outright or via monthly financing. Along with the options below, Square also has options for accessories to use alongside its software or in tandem with your personal computer or tablet.
- Square Register: $899 or $44/month for 24 months
- Square Handheld: $399 or $37/month with financing
- Square Terminal: $299 or $27/month for 12 months
- Square Stand: $149 or $14/month for 12 months
- Square Reader: $59 or $21 per month with financing
- Square Reader for magstripe: First free, $10 additional
Square key features
- POS essentials: Inventory management, reporting, CRM, employee controls, marketing tools, order management, and integrated payments are included even in the free plan.
- Industry-specific systems: Versions for restaurants, retailers, beauty, wellness, and service businesses with tailored tools and hardware.
- Integrated payments: Built-in Square Payments for all payment types, plus Afterpay for customer financing.
- Online store: Free Square Online builder with ecommerce, online ordering, or booking options based on your industry.
- Add-ons: Payroll, loyalty programs, advanced online store, and marketing tools available for a monthly fee.
- Custom solutions: Bespoke POS development available for businesses outgrowing standard plans.
Square POS gallery
Customize your retail checkout screen with your most used products and functions. (Source: Square) 
Square’s Restaurant POS includes a KDS system that breaks down orders by table. (Source: Square) 
Keep track of your appointment schedule right from your Square Appointments POS account. (Source: Square) 
Add product details, including product variants, for each piece of your Square inventory. (Source: Square) 
See everything that is happening (or has happened) in your store, even if you can’t be there in person with Square’s Activity Log. (Source: Square) 
Understand your store’s performance and view real-time data with Square’s reporting tools. (Source: Square) 
Create your ecommerce store with Square’s free ecommerce site builder. (Source: Square)
Is Square POS really free?
Yes. Square POS offers a free plan with no monthly software fees and includes robust core features such as inventory tracking, reporting, customer management, and integrated payments. You only pay processing fees, starting at 2.6% + 15 cents per in-person transaction. Optional add-ons and hardware are available at an extra cost.
Shopify POS: Best for ecommerce and omnichannel retail
Pros
- Industry-leading ecommerce platform
- Integrations with TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Google, eBay, Amazon, and more
- Advanced plans for ecom and POS
- 24/7 1:1 customer support
Cons
- No free plan
- Offline mode limitations
- Ecommerce plans only include Lite POS
Why I chose Shopify POS
Shopify has always been my go-to recommendation for retailers that want a seamless online and in-person sales setup. It’s the industry leader in ecommerce, with unmatched integrations across social media shops, marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, and its own powerful online store builder — which I find far more robust than Square’s.
Every Shopify account comes with a basic POS system for occasional in-person sales, but where it really shines is in building a true omnichannel business. If most of your revenue comes from online, Shopify makes more sense than providers like PayPal POS or Square because its ecommerce tools are already built-in, along with solid marketing features and flexible payment options.
You can use Shopify POS as a standalone register or bundle it with the full ecommerce platform for a multichannel setup that syncs inventory, orders, and customers in one dashboard. While other systems may be cheaper for strictly in-person selling, none match Shopify’s combination of ecommerce power and POS flexibility.
Shopify POS Pricing
POS plans:
The basic Shopify POS software is free and comes with an ecommerce plan that starts at $5 per month. You can also upgrade to a more advanced version of the POS software (POS Pro) by paying $89 per month on top of the ecommerce plan. If you don’t need an ecommerce platform (if you sell on social media), you can opt for Shopify’s Starter POS plan.
- Basic: Free with a Shopify ecommerce plan
- Starter: $5/month
- Pro: $89/month (requires a Shopify ecommerce plan)
Processing fees:
In addition to your monthly software fees, you’ll also pay monthly payment processing fees. For Shopify Payments, the processing fees are listed below. If you choose to use a third-party processor, rates will vary, but you will incur an additional transaction fee from Shopify.
- In-person: 2.4%-2.6% + 10 cents (3.5% +10 cents for keyed-in manual)
- Online: 2.5%-2.9% + 30 cents (3.1% + 30 cents to 3.5% + 30 cents for commercial business cards or B2B)
Hardware:
Shopify also offers POS hardware options for both in-store and mobile operations. Alternatively, if you need to complete a mobile sale and are away from your store, you can use the Shopify POS app to complete sales from your mobile device, including tap-to-pay functionality and barcode scanning. Shopify’s hardware options include:
- Countertop kit: $459
- POS Terminal: $349
- Shopify Tap & Chip Reader: $49
- POS accessories: $9-$99
Shopify POS key features
- Ecommerce site builder: Choose from dozens of templates for every kind of small business. The site builder is easy to use, full of customization options, and can be accessed at any time to make edits and site adjustments right from your Shopify account.
- Scalable POS system: Every Shopify account comes with a free Lite POS system. The Lite POS includes all the features a POS needs, such as inventory management, reporting, staff management, CRM tools, and more, at a very basic level. However, you can also upgrade to the Pro POS system for more advanced POS features if you start doing more in-person selling.
- Shopify app store: You can integrate hundreds of third-party tools into your Shopify POS for loyalty programs, inventory management, outreach marketing, analytics, and more via the Shopify app store. Note, however, that many of these tools come with monthly fees.
- Shopify Payments: Shopify Payments is integrated into every POS, so you can start taking payments and completing sales immediately when you create your POS account.
- Omnichannel selling (Pro): Shopify has tools to integrate all your sales channels so you can unify inventory, staff, and customer management everywhere you sell. Shopify sales channels include your online store, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, eBay, Google, Amazon, and more.
- Marketing automations: Shopify includes marketing automations to help you hone your store’s SEO, create targeted ads, identify new customers, and reach out to existing customers through email and SMS based on automated triggers.
- Shipping discounts: Shop discounted shipping rates from all major shipping companies and print shipping labels straight from your Shopify account.
- Top converting checkout UI: Shopify boasts the world’s top converting online checkout interface with Shop Pay. Shopify claims that its checkout interface boasts 15% higher conversion rates compared to other ecommerce platforms.
Shopify POS gallery
Create the ecommerce site of your dreams with Shopify’s state-of-the-art website builder. (Source: Boris Dental Care) 
Get your POS system up and running by adding your inventory. (Source: Shopify live agent support portal) 
Choose from dozens of website templates, designed for specific industries and needs. 
Track sales and activity from every channel on which you sell by adding them to your Shopify POS with the click of a button. (Source: Avada Commerce) 
Customize your Shopify checkout screen with your most used products and functions. (Source: Shopify) 
Better understand how your store is doing with Shopify’s reporting tools. (Source: Tech.co)
Toast: Best for restaurants
Pros
- Free basic POS system
- Pay-as-you-go option for hardware
- In-house online ordering platform
- Restaurant-specific tools and features (kitchen display system, ingredient-level tracking, menu management)
Cons
- POS can only operate on Toast hardware
- Access account on browser; no mobile app
- Standard 2-year contract
- Frequent hardware updates
- User interface learning curve; UI changes often with updates
Why I chose Toast
Toast is a POS system built specifically for the food service industry, with tools to support restaurants, cafes, catering businesses, food trucks, and more. It has features for online ordering, delivery management, tableside service, kitchen display system (KDS), and menu-based ingredient-level inventory management — miles ahead of Square’s restaurant POS software.
I particularly like how Toast bundles its hardware and software together to get your restaurant up and running. Its subscription options range from $0 to custom pricing for large-scale operations, making the system perfect for businesses that are just starting out and ensuring that the provider can support you as you grow. The pay-as-you-go option allows businesses to get started with no upfront costs and to pay as revenue comes in.
From experts to small business owners alike, there is no question that Toast is the best POS system for restaurants. The POS software’s range of tools was also a huge plus in my evaluation, allowing the system to fit the needs of cafes up to full-service restaurants. That said, small restaurants might find all the bells and whistles of Toast overwhelming to manage, in which case I recommend Square Restaurant POS software instead.
Related: Best Restaurant POS Systems
Toast pricing
POS plans:
Toast offers three POS subscription options that vary based on features and processing fees. Unlike the other POS platforms on this list, Toast requires a 2-year contract. As of this writing, the rates are:
- Starter Kit: $0/month
- Point of Sale: $69/month
- Build Your Own: Custom pricing
Processing fees:
In addition to paying for your POS software each month, Toast also has payment processing fees for its in-house payments solution, Toast Payments.
- In-person
- Pay-as-you-go: 3.09% + 15 cents
- Standard plan: 2.49% + 15 cents
- Online
- Pay-as-you-go: 3.09% + 15 cents
- Standard plan: 3.50% + 15 cents
- Custom rates are available for high-volume businesses
Hardware:
Toast also offers users the option to get hardware and software for no upfront cost if they agree to higher processing fees. Exact fees vary based on the hardware you are financing, but in general, users opting for the pay-as-you-go arrangement can expect to pay an additional 0.50% in processing fees.
Toast also has many hardware options that users have to purchase to use the POS system*. For the Starter Kit plan, you have the option to choose between the handheld kit or the countertop terminal for your POS hardware. For Point of Sale and Build Your Own plans, you can choose whatever hardware suits your needs.
To pay for your hardware, you can either use the pay-as-you-go option for up to two hardware kits, outlined above, or you can pay upfront. Toast’s hardware options include:
- Countertop Terminal Starter Kit: $875 + or $0 + 2.99% + 15 cents per in-person transaction
- Handheld Terminal Starter Kit: $627 or $0 + 2.99% + 15 cents per in-person transaction
- Self Service Kiosk (Core and Build Your Own plans only): $1,234 or $0 + 2.99% + 15 cents per in-person transaction
In addition to its POS hardware, Toast also offers peripheral tools.
- Kitchen display system: $499 + $99 per month
- Toast Printer: $199
- Epson printer: $333
*On their FAQ page, Toast states that users “may be able to bring their own hardware.” While Toast users cannot use their own touch-screen tablets or card readers, they may be able to reuse compatible receipt and kitchen printers. However, bringing any pre-owned hardware could impact the service Toast can provide.
Toast key features
- Restaurant-specific POS: Toast includes an intuitive order and checkout screen, integrated payments, table and seating management, real-time inventory tracking, and detailed reporting. Checkout runs on Toast hardware, but you can access your account from any browser.
- Tableside service: Take orders, send them to the kitchen, and process payments right at the table. Handhelds also show order-ready alerts and collect customer feedback.
- Online ordering and delivery: Build commission-free ordering on your site, the Toast TakeOut app, or by phone. Integrate with delivery partners like DoorDash so orders flow directly to your POS.
- Detailed reporting: Get ingredient- and menu-level insights by location and across your business.
- Menu management: Update menus from any terminal or your POS account, auto-86 items, and set countdowns for specials to keep staff informed in real time.
Toast gallery
Check customers out quickly and easily with Toast’s simple checkout page on its proprietary hardware. (Source: Toast) 
Manage your tables and reservations from one screen. (Source: Toast) 
With Toast’s inventory management tools from xtraCHEF you can get actionable, real-time insights on an ingredient level. (Source: Toast) 
Get insights into your restaurant’s performance with Toast’s restaurant-specific reporting and analytics. (Source: Toast) 
Toast offers a kitchen display system so that your kitchen can view and take care of orders in real time. (Source: Toast) 
Manage your online orders and keep customers up to date on their deliveries. (Source: Toast) 
xAdd your restaurant to Toast’s online ordering platform for free. (Source: Toast)
Helcim: Best for B2B and high-volume payments
Pros
- Affordable hardware
- Free software
- Interchange-plus processing fees
- Invoicing and subscription management tools
Cons
- Only basic POS tools; no advanced plans
- Must purchase Helcim hardware to process payments
- Limited integrations for ecommerce
- No marketing tools
Why I chose Helcim
I chose Helcim for businesses that want a capable POS without monthly software fees and with payment pricing that becomes more competitive as volume grows. Its cloud-based POS works across phones, tablets, Mac and Windows computers, as well as the Helcim Smart Terminal and Card Reader. The full software suite is included, with inventory management, customer profiles, employee roles, reporting, invoicing, recurring payments, and a virtual terminal.
Its biggest advantage is its payment model. Helcim uses interchange-plus pricing starting at interchange + 0.40% + 8 cents for in-person credit card transactions, with margins that decrease automatically as monthly processing volume increases. It also charges no setup, monthly, PCI, or cancellation fees. That makes it especially appealing to B2B companies, professional services, and growing businesses that process enough volume to benefit from lower rates over time.
The tradeoff is that Helcim is stronger as a payments-first POS than as an industry-specific operating system. It covers core inventory, customer, employee, and reporting needs well, but it does not offer the same depth of restaurant tools as Toast or advanced retail inventory functions as Lightspeed. For businesses prioritizing lower payment costs and a broad set of included payment tools over specialized POS features, Helcim is one of the strongest options in this guide.
Helcim pricing
POS plans and processing fees:
Helcim charges $0 monthly software fees for its POS system.
The only monthly fee you will incur from Helcim is for your payment processing, which varies depending on how much money you process each month. The table below outlines a more detailed breakdown, and you can also use Helcim’s fee calculator to estimate how much you can expect to pay in processing.
Transaction Value | In-Person | Online or Keyed-In |
|---|---|---|
| $0–$50,000 | 0.4% + 8 cents | 0.50% + 25 cents |
| $50,001–$100,000 | 0.35% + 7 cents | 0.45% + 20 cents |
| $100,001–$500,000 | 0.25% + 7 cents | 0.35% + 20 cents |
| $500,001–$1,000,000 | 0.20% + 6 cents | 0.25% + 15 cents |
| $1,000,001+ | 0.15% + 6 cents | 0.15% + 15 cents |
Hardware:
Helcim offers three ways to accept in-person payments, including a $0 hardware option through Tap to Pay on iPhone. The Smart Terminal and Card Reader can work on their own or pair with the Helcim POS app on supported devices.
- Helcim Smart Terminal: $349, or $32/month for 12 months
- Helcim Card Reader: $199
- Tap to Pay on iPhone: $0 hardware cost
The Smart Terminal includes a built-in thermal receipt printer and up to 12 hours of battery life, while the Card Reader can be used standalone or paired with a phone, tablet, laptop, or workstation.
Helcim key features
- Invoicing: Use Helcim’s free invoicing software to streamline billing, get paid faster, and cut processing costs.
- Interchange-plus pricing: Pay only true interchange rates with no markups. The more you process, the more you save — use Helcim’s calculator to see your potential savings.
- Subscription management: Automate recurring billing for credit card and ACH payments.
- Free POS system: Every Helcim account includes a free POS with inventory tracking, CRM, and reporting. Run it on your own device or the Helcim Smart Terminal with a paired card reader.
- Inventory management: Track stock levels and product performance in real time.
- CRM: Store customer details, save payment methods, and view purchase history.
- Reporting: Access detailed reports on sales, tipping, tenders, categories, invoicing, and discounts.
Helcim gallery
Log and track your inventory. 
Use Helcim’s smart terminal to take your POS on the go and print receipts from anywhere. 
Log in to your Helcim Payments accounts on your desktop to access your POS and pair your divide with the Helcim card reader to start making sales. 
Or, download the Helcim payments app to take your POS on the go. Simply pair your device with the Helcim card reader to start taking payments. 
Create customer profiles to add to your directory, log their contact information, and track their activity. 
Create and log your inventory in your inventory catalog.
Lightspeed Retail: Best for large and complex inventories
Pros
- Industry-specific POS for retail
- Choice of in-house or several third-party payment solutions
- Granular, matrix inventory management tools
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- High monthly software fees
- Limited mobile app options
- UI learning curve
- Monthly fee for using third-party merchant account
Why I chose Lightspeed
Lightspeed is a popular POS system for all kinds of businesses, with an industry-specific system just for retailers (Lightspeed R Series or Lightspeed for Retail). Lightspeed’s retail POS system has everything a retailer needs to run their business, including some of the best inventory management tools in the industry, CRM tools, advanced reporting and analytics, a customizable loyalty program, an in-house ecommerce site builder, integrated payments, and plans to support your growth.
If Toast offers the best-in-class features for restaurants, Lightspeed does the same for managing retail businesses. The software is especially strong when it comes to inventory management and reporting, with tools for managing complex inventories, keeping track of your vendors, integrated purchase ordering tools, and even built-in product catalogs where you can shop and order goods right from your POS account.
It is significantly more expensive than Square, but if you don’t mind the high price point, Lightspeed is my best recommendation for niche retailers and those that accept made-to-order products.
Lightspeed Retail pricing
POS plans:
Lightspeed for Retail offers four software plans, with higher plans including more advanced features. Lightspeed R Series plans are priced as follows:
- Basic: $109/month; $89/month (annual)
- Core: $179/month; $149/month (annual)
- Plus: $339/month; $289/month (annual)
Processing fees:
The only other monthly fees you will incur are payment processing fees. Lightspeed Payments is the default option for processing, however, you can integrate your Lightspeed account with a few other merchants. If you choose to do this, you will have to pay an additional third-party processing fee. For Lightspeed Payments, the processing fees are:
- In-person: 2.6% + 10 cents
- Online: 2.9% + 30 cents
Hardware:
In addition to its software options, Lightspeed also offers a number of hardware options for both an iPad and desktop setup. Lightspeed does not disclose its hardware options or pricing — you have to reach out to a rep who will assess your needs and circumstances to pair you with the best hardware for your business.
Lightspeed for Retail key features
- Marketing tools: Segment shoppers, collect reviews, send SMS campaigns, and automate alerts and promotions.
- Ecommerce: Standard and Advanced plans include Lightspeed Online, or you can integrate with major ecommerce platforms.
- Customizable checkout: Add hotkeys and tiles for your most-used functions and products.
- Lightspeed B2B: Order wholesale products from a built-in catalog and have them automatically added to your inventory with full product details.
- Inventory management: Industry-leading matrix inventory tools with purchase orders, special orders, bulk edits, low-stock alerts, and stock counting.
- Accounting integration: Sync your accounting software to manage bookkeeping from your POS dashboard.
- Loyalty program: Create a fully customizable program that rewards customers across all sales channels.
- Reporting: Build custom reports or use Lightspeed Analytics for actionable, AI-driven insights.
Lightspeed Retail gallery
Set automated outreach marketing triggers to keep customers coming back. (Source: Lightspeed) 
Log and track your inventory in Lightspeed’s inventory catalog. (Source: Lightspeed) 
Customize your Lightspeed checkout page to streamline operation with quick keys for your most used products and categories. (Source: Lightspeed) 
View general reports on your store’s performance at a glance. (Source: Lightspeed) 
Or, view more granular reports and insights with Lightspeed’s top of the industry advanced reporting tools. (Source: Lightspeed) 
Shop for products and order them right from your POS with Lightspeed’s integrated vendor catalogs. (Source: Lightspeed)
GoDaddy POS: Best low-cost POS
Pros
- Competitive flat-rate in-person card processing starting at 2.3%
- Fast payouts, as soon as the next business day
- Integrated ecommerce with GoDaddy Online Store and Managed WooCommerce
- Multiple hardware options, including countertop and mobile devices
- 24/7 customer support, plus dedicated onboarding for high-volume sellers
Cons
- Must use GoDaddy Payments for processing
- Limited advanced third-party POS integrations compared to some competitors
- No built-in loyalty program without third-party apps
Why I chose GoDaddy POS
GoDaddy POS is a lightweight but capable solution built for small retailers and entrepreneurs, especially those already using GoDaddy for domains, websites, or ecommerce. Its quick setup, flat-rate processing, and simple inventory tools make it a strong option for sellers who want in-person and online sales in one platform. I like that there’s no contract, you can start with just a card reader and phone, and your dashboard syncs seamlessly with your online store. Its processing fees are even cheaper than Square’s highest tier, at 2.3% (vs Square’s Premium at 2.4% + 15 cents).
When the GoDaddy team demoed the POS for our team, I was impressed by how quickly it could be set up and synced with my dashboard. Its AI assistant, Airo, stood out — letting me create product listings, adjust pricing, and even generate sales reports with simple prompts. It delivers excellent value for users who want simplicity and affordability.
GoDaddy POS pricing
POS plans
- Standard: Free with purchase of GoDaddy hardware; 2.5% flat rate, includes product setup, basic inventory tracking, and GoDaddy Payments.
- Plus: $34.99/month; 2.3% flat rate, includes stock alerts, online ordering with pickup, employee management, and customizable digital receipts.
Processing fees
- 2.5% flat rate (Standard) or 2.3% (Plus) for in-person credit card transactions
- Surcharge option available to offset processing costs to 0% for in-person credit card sales
Hardware
All devices include free two-day shipping, a one-year warranty, and a 30-day money-back guarantee. GoDaddy POS also has the Tap to Pay (free) feature, which lets you accept contactless payments directly on a smartphone.
- Card Reader: $99
- Smart Terminal: $299 (dual-screen, compact design)
- Smart Terminal Flex: $499 (all-in-one, mobile-friendly)
GoDaddy POS key features
- Offline + online sync for unified order and inventory tracking
- Built-in POS tools for barcode setup, modifiers, and preset discounts
- Real-time inventory management with ordering directly from terminal
- Customization for discounts, roles, permissions, and branding
- Add-ons for loyalty, employee management, and time tracking
- Tap to Pay feature for accepting contactless payments without extra hardware
- AI assistant “Airo” for product setup, pricing, and reporting guidance
Gallery
GoDaddy’s AI virtual assistant, Airo, can add product listings to your catalog. (Source: GoDaddy) 
Quickly see which devices are connected to your POS from your GoDaddy admin dashboard. (Source: GoDaddy) 
Your Catalog not only displays your products’ pricing at a glance, but also shows its available stock and the sales channels it is currently displayed in. (Source: GoDaddy) 
You can manage existing sales channels and add sales channels from your admin dashboard. (Source: GoDaddy)
Clover: Best for flexible payment processing and durable mobile POS hardware
Pros
- Works with multiple merchant service providers in the Fiserv network
- Durable, modern hardware with Wi-Fi and LTE options
- Strong CRM and marketing tools for customer retention
- Month-to-month contracts available through some resellers
Cons
- Merchant account is hard to change once set up
- No built-in online store; requires third-party ecommerce integration
- Pricing, contract terms, and support can vary widely by reseller
Why I chose Clover
Clover is one of the most flexible POS systems for small businesses that want control over their payment processing. While most POS providers lock you into their own merchant account, Clover lets you shop rates and work with different processors in the Fiserv network. That flexibility can mean real savings, especially for high-volume sellers.
In my experience testing Clover, the hardware stood out. Devices like the Clover Flex and Clover Mini are fast, durable, and work anywhere with LTE or Wi-Fi. During my hands-on time, I liked how customizable the software was and how its CRM tools make it easy to build loyalty programs, track customer visits, and send targeted promotions. The buying process isn’t as straightforward as Square or Toast since most businesses purchase Clover through a bank or merchant services provider, but the payoff is a setup that can be tailored to your exact needs.
Clover pricing
- POS plans: $0 to $16+ per month if bundled with hardware; plans and rates vary by reseller
- Processing fees: 2.3%-2.6% + 10 cents in person; 3.5% + 10 cents online
- Hardware: Clover Go ($199), Clover Flex ($749), Clover Flex Pocket ($699), Clover Compact ($349), Clover Mini ($849), Clover Station Solo ($1,799)
Clover key features
- Flexible payment processing: Accepts credit/debit, contactless, gift cards, mobile wallets, PayPal, and Venmo QR codes
- CRM and loyalty tools: Create customer profiles, rewards programs, and marketing campaigns directly in the POS
- Business management: Inventory tracking, sales analytics, employee scheduling, and customer feedback collection
- Mobile-ready hardware: LTE and Wi-Fi devices for on-the-go selling, plus countertop stations for in-store operations
- Offline mode: Keep processing payments without internet; syncs automatically when back online
Gallery
Clover has one of the most modern and aesthetically pleasing hardware I have tried and tested. Their hardware is built to last, too. (Source: Clover) 
The Clover dashboard is straightforward. You can easily see your operations, transactions, and manage employee access and business information. (Source: Clover) 
For keyed-in or manual transactions, Clover has a virtual terminal you can access from your admin dashboard. (Source: Clover)
PayPal Point of Sale: Best for microbusinesses and occasional sellers
Pros
- PayPal payment method integration for in-store and online sales
- Free POS software
- Low flat-rate payment processing
- Affordable hardware options
Cons
- Limited POS functions; no advanced features
- Not suited for restaurants or appointment-based businesses
- No CRM or employee management tools
- Complaints of frozen accounts
Why I chose PayPal Point of Sale
PayPal Point of Sale (POS) is a free POS system with affordable hardware, making it a great choice for micro-sellers and solopreneurs who only need the basics. It’s fully mobile, so you can take payments anywhere without a physical store. I like that you can run the POS entirely from the free PayPal POS app — including tap-to-pay — with no monthly fees, just processing costs.
While its POS features are more basic than Square’s and there are no upgrade options, it still covers essentials like sales processing, inventory tracking, and customer management. And because it’s tied to PayPal, you also get access to lower processing rates and PayPal’s financing options.
PayPal POS gallery
Complete sales from anywhere with PayPay Zettle’s tap-to-pay function on its mobile app. (Source: PayPal) 
PayPal Zettle checkout is easy to use and can run on your mobile device. (Source: PayPal) 
Add new products to your inventory and include detailed information, including barcodes and SKUs. (Source: PayPal) 
You can complete sales from any mobile device with PayPal Zettle’s mobile POS app. (Source: PayPal)
PayPal Point of Sale pricing
POS plans and processing fees:
PayPal POS’ software is free, so you will incur no monthly software fees. Each month, you only have to pay your processing fees, which are some of the lowest flat-rate options in the industry. PayPal POS processing fees are:
- In-person: 2.29% + 9 cents
- Online: 3.49% + 9 cents
- Manual entry: 3.49% + 9 cents
- QR code: 2.29% + 9 cents
- Invoicing: 2.99% – 3.49%+ 49 cents
Hardware:
PayPal POS also offers two hardware options, along with accessory options. You do not, however, need to purchase any hardware to operate your PayPal POS — you can always use the PayPal POS app, complete with tap-to-pay technology, to make sales and process payments from your personal iOS or Android mobile device. If you do want to use POS hardware, your options are as follows:
- Card reader: $29 for your first reader, $79 for additional readers
- Terminal: $199–$239 (includes built-in barcode scanner)
PayPal Point of Sale key features
- POS app: The PayPal POS app works on Android and iOS, letting you process sales from your phone or tablet. It supports barcode scanning via your device’s camera and tap-to-pay without extra hardware.
- Reporting: View basic reports on sales, product performance, and inventory.
- User-friendly checkout: Simple interface for adding discounts, removing products, and emailing receipts. No CRM tools are included.
- PayPal integration: Accept PayPal in-store and online, including financing options like Pay in 4 and PayPal Credit.
- Inventory management: Add products with detailed info, track stock levels, and monitor best- and worst-sellers.
Best POS systems by business type
| Business type | Best POS system | Why it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Most small businesses | Square | Free entry plan, broad hardware choices, built-in payments, and tools for retail, restaurants, and service businesses |
| Ecommerce and omnichannel retail | Shopify POS | Connects online and in-store inventory, customers, orders, and fulfillment in one platform |
| Restaurants | Toast | Restaurant-specific tools for menus, kitchen operations, online ordering, payroll, and staff management |
| B2B and high-volume payments | Helcim | Interchange-plus pricing, automatic volume discounts, no monthly POS fee, and strong invoicing and virtual terminal tools |
| Retailers with complex inventory | Lightspeed Retail | Advanced inventory, purchasing, supplier, and multi-location retail management |
| Low-cost POS setup | GoDaddy POS | $0 software option, simple payment setup, and a good fit for businesses already using GoDaddy |
| Flexible hardware setups | Clover | Wide range of mobile, countertop, and full-register hardware with a large app ecosystem |
| Microbusinesses and occasional sellers | PayPal POS | No monthly software fee, low-cost payment acceptance, and simple mobile selling tools |
How much does a POS system cost in 2026?
A POS system can cost $0 to more than $300 per month for software, plus hardware and payment processing fees. Small businesses can often start with free POS software and a low-cost card reader, while restaurants and retailers with more advanced needs may pay more for hardware, add-ons, and industry-specific features.
Typical POS costs include:
- Software: $0 to $100+ per month per location
- Hardware: $0 for Tap to Pay to $1,000+ for a full register setup
- Payment processing: Usually around 2% to 3% per card-present transaction, depending on the provider and pricing model
- Add-ons: Extra fees may apply for payroll, loyalty, advanced inventory, online ordering, or additional locations
- Contracts and cancellation fees: Some providers have no long-term contract, while others may require one
POS system pricing comparison
Below is our POS system pricing comparison for the top providers we reviewed, including Square, Shopify, GoDaddy, Toast, Lightspeed, Helcim, Clover, and PayPal POS.
| Provider | Monthly software fee | In-person payment processing rates | Online payment processing rates | Hardware costs | Free trial availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Square | $0-$149 | 2.4%-2.6% + 15 cents | 2.9%-3.3% + 30 cents | $59-$899 | 30 days for paid tiers |
| Shopify | $5-$399 | 2.4%-2.7% | 2.4%-2.9% + 30 cents | $49-$499 | 3 days |
| GoDaddy | $0-$34.99 | 2.3%-2.5% | Not listed | $99-$499 | 30 days |
| Toast | $0-$69+ | 2.49% + 15 cents | 3.5% + 15 cents | From $799 | N/A |
| Lightspeed | $89-$269 | 2.6% + 10 cents | 2.9% + 30 cents | Custom | 14 days |
| Helcim | Free | Interchange + 0.5% + 25 cents | Interchange + 0.5% + 25 cents | $199 | N/A |
| Clover | $0-$16+ | ~2.3%-2.6% + 10 cents | ~3.5% + 10 cents | $199-$1,799 | N/A |
| PayPal Point of Sale | Free | 2.29% + 9 cents | 3.49% + 9 cents | $29-$79 | N/A |
Can you get a POS system for free?
Yes, providers like Square, GoDaddy POS, PayPal Zettle, and Toast offer free plans with essential POS features, but you’ll still pay payment processing fees. Free plans are good for testing and small-scale sales, but upgrading unlocks more advanced tools for growth.
Key features of a small business POS system
A POS system combines software, payment processing, and compatible hardware to handle sales and related business tasks. Depending on the provider, it can also manage inventory, customers, employees, reporting, online orders, and multiple locations. The features you need will depend on how and where you sell.
The best POS system for your business should fit your budget, sales channels, and growth plans. Focus on these areas:
- Pricing and payment processing: Compare monthly software fees, hardware costs, processing rates, contracts, and add-ons. High-volume sellers may benefit from interchange-plus pricing, while smaller businesses may prefer simple flat-rate processing.
- Hardware and mobile selling: Look for hardware that fits how you sell, whether at a counter, tableside, at events, or on the go. Mobile apps, Tap to Pay, and financing options can lower upfront costs. Related: Best POS hardware
- Inventory and reporting: Your POS should track stock, sales, and performance across products, locations, and channels. More advanced systems add purchase orders, low-stock alerts, custom reports, and deeper sales analysis. Learn more: Understanding POS data
- Customer and marketing tools: Customer profiles, loyalty programs, segmentation, email, and text marketing can help businesses encourage repeat sales and measure engagement.
- Multilocation and omnichannel sales: If you sell from multiple stores or online, look for centralized inventory, orders, customer data, and reporting across locations and channels.
- Scalability and integrations: Choose a system that can add locations, users, features, and hardware as your business grows. Check integrations with your ecommerce platform, accounting software, payroll, and other tools you already use.
Learn more: Key POS features you need
How to choose the right POS system
Choosing the best POS system for small business starts with aligning the platform to your workflow, sales channels, and growth goals. Whether you need an affordable POS for small business, a cloud POS for small businesses, or an industry-specific solution, use this process to guide your choice:
- Define your needs: List your sales volume, inventory type, industry-specific tools, and sales channels.
- Shortlist options: Research providers used in your industry, check user reviews, and remove those that lack must-have functions.
- Compare features and pricing: Weigh total costs, including hardware, software, and payment processing, against the value delivered.
- Check integrations: Ensure the POS connects to your accounting, ecommerce, and CRM systems.
- Test usability: Look for simple navigation, fast transactions, and minimal training requirements.
- Assess support: Prioritize providers with 24/7, multi-channel support and clear onboarding resources.
- Read real-world feedback: Look for consistent praise (or complaints) in long-term user reviews.
- Run a trial: Test the POS in your actual environment before making a final commitment.
FAQs
What is the best POS system for small business?
The best POS system depends on your business type and goals. Square is popular for retail and mobile sellers, Toast for restaurants, and Shopify for ecommerce-focused stores.
What is the cheapest POS system for a small business?
Some of the most affordable POS systems for small businesses include free plans from Square, PayPal Zettle, and GoDaddy POS. You’ll still pay payment processing fees, but software costs can be $0 per month.
Can I use a POS without the Internet?
Yes. Many POS systems offer offline mode, letting you process sales and store transaction data until you reconnect to the internet.
How secure is a POS system?
A modern POS system uses encryption, tokenization, and PCI-compliant payment processing to protect customer and business data.
Can a POS integrate with my online store?
Yes. Many POS systems, like Square and Shopify, sync with ecommerce platforms so you can manage inventory, orders, and customer data across online and in-store channels.
How much does a POS system cost for small businesses?
POS systems can cost as little as $0 but can also go up to hundreds of dollars per month. This price disparity largely depends on the complexity of the features, the hardware, and the number of locations and people the system manages.
Are there free POS systems?
Yes, there are a few great free POS system options available from Square, Toast, PayPal Zettle, GoDaddy POS, and Helcim. Note, however, that while the monthly software costs are free, you will still incur and have to pay payment processing fees.
How do you choose a POS system for your business?
To choose a POS system for your business, you should consider your needs, budget, and business goals. From there, you should research your options to find a solution that fits the bill.